Purbeck Isle fundraisers send thanks for support and donations

PURBECK Isle fundraisers are thanking the community for their support and are asking everyone to join together to co-ordinate their efforts.

The Weymouth and Portland Licensed Fishermen’s and Boatmen’s Association is spearheading the Purbeck Isle Memorial Fund, which is aiming to raise money for
the families of the crew of the Purbeck Isle, skipper David McFarlane, 35, Jack Craig, 22, and Robert Prowse, 20.

The boat went missing on Thursday, May 17, sparking a three-day rescue mission. The wreck of the Purbeck Isle was found about nine miles off the coast of Portland and 50metres down.

Mr McFarlane’s body was also recovered on Friday but crewmen Jack Craig and Robert Prowse have not yet been found.

Dorset Police said that divers will not be going down to the wreck and that it would be left as a ‘lasting memorial’ to the men.

The Weymouth and Portland Licensed Fishermen’s and Boatmen’s Association has now set up a memorial fund charity which has trustees and a committee. They are calling on everyone in the community who
wants to help to co-ordinate all activities, fundraisers and collections through them.

He said it was great that so many people had offered help but he said that people should combine efforts to have maximum impact.

He said: “By all means carry on doing your bit but come through us. Any ideas you want to run by us we will listen.”

John Anderson, superintendent of the Fishermen’s Mission in Brixham, said: “It’s very important that the community do it together.”

He added: “It has to be the community working together in unison for the benefit of the family.”

To discuss ideas, email at purbeckislememorialfund@gmail.com or go to The Sailor’s Return, St Nicholas Street, Weymouth.

A Band Day fundraiser is planned for Sunday, July 1 at The Sailor’s Return. To donate raffle prizes email the address above.

How you can play your part

Cash donations or cheques payable to the Weymouth and Portland Licensed Fishermen’s and Boatmen’s Association can be dropped in to the Dorset Echo offices on the Granby Industrial Estate in
Weymouth, Antelope Walk in Dorchester or East Street in Bridport.